Coronavirus: Information & Resources

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FOR HISTORICAL PURPOSES ONLY
Information on this page is displayed for historical purposes only and is no longer being updated. As such, it may be out of date with recent developments or scientific research. CDC.gov and your state’s health department may offer additional guidance.

How to Make a Face Mask for Infection Prevention

Making Masks for Health Care Workers

When you have symptoms of cold, flu, COVID-19 or other infections, wear a facemask to protect others, including health care providers, from catching your illness. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about wearing a facemask.

We have evaluated several prototypes for fit and tested the following guidelines for handmade masks.

Instructions for Making Masks

Please review our:

Download Instructions for making masks for health care workers. Please note that the nose wire component not optional.
Download a PDF of the pattern. Important: Right-click on the link and select "Save Link As" to download it to your computer before printing. Please check measurements on the pattern before cutting.

Watch Instructional Video

FAQs

Read these FAQs to learn more about our pattern selection process, mask use, effectiveness and more.

Use and Care of a Cloth Mask

Proper use and care of a cloth mask is critical for protecting yourself and others. Watch and download instructions.

Who Needs a Facemask and Why?

Use and Care of a Cloth Mask

The information on our website is medically reviewed and accurate at the time of publication. Due to the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, information may have since changed. CDC.gov and your state’s health department may offer additional guidance.